Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Condemns Solar Tariffs
Contact: Jennifer Rennicks, Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, jrennicks@cleanenergy.org, 865-235-1448
Atlanta, Ga. (January 23, 2018) Yesterday, President Trump rendered a long-awaited decision by imposing a 30% tariff on imported solar panels*. This “remedy” derives from a complaint lodged by Suniva and SolarWorld seeking protection from the International Trade Commission under a rarely used provision (Section 201) of the 1974 Trade Act.
“SACE is disappointed that the President felt compelled to manipulate the solar market,” said Bryan Jacob, Solar Program Director of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy. “This maneuver will increase the cost of solar and slow growth in one of the most vibrant segments of the U.S. economy.”
That said, the solar market is resilient and growth will resume. In their forthcoming Solar In the Southeast, 2017 Annual Report, SACE had previously predicted capacity of solar energy in seven southeastern states to expand from six gigawatts (6 GW) in 2017 to 10 GW by 2019 and 15 GW in 2021.
* crystalline silicon photovoltaic (CSPV) cells and modules.
###
The Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) is a non-profit organization that promotes responsible energy choices that work to address the impacts of global climate change and ensure clean, safe and healthy communities throughout the Southeast. After more than 30 years, SACE remains the only regional organization solely focused on transforming the way we produce and consume energy in the Southeast.